Tuesday, 21 May 2013

Obama to visit Sub-Saharan Africa

Washington –For the second time since he was elected US President, Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama are planning to visit three African countries in June.

According to a statement released by the White House Mr Obama will visit South Africa, Senegal and Tanzania where he is expected to meet lawmakers, business and civil society leaders and youth from the various countries on his trip.

According the White House Obama's visit to the Sub-Saharan Africa will run from the 26th June to the 3rd July.

According to the White House the aim of Obama's trip is to reinforce the importance placed by the US on our “deep and growing ties with countries in sub-Saharan Africa, including through expanding economic growth, investment, and trade; strengthening democratic institutions; and investing in the next generation of African leaders.”

It has also been observed that another possible reason for the trip could be related to the growing threat of Islamist militants in Mali, which as increased the importance of the area for Washington.

The White House statement did not refer to any such concerns however, noting simply that “the trip will underscore the president’s commitment to broadening and deepening cooperation between the United States and the people of sub-Saharan Africa to advance regional and global peace and prosperity.”